America warns its citizens to be careful in Cameroon

Courtesy - Harry Ndienla Yemti

The Embassy of the United States of America in Yaounde, Cameroon, has advised American Citizens in the country, against traveling to the city of Douala, the country’s economic capital and other areas in the country. The decision came on the hills of violent demonstrations perpetrated by the people of Cameroon and particularly Douala, against the Biya Regime.

Amongst some of their grievances are; the high cost of fuel, and goods of basic necessities, unemployment, and the much talk about constitutional amendments.
For closed to five days the people have been demonstrating on the streets singing provocative songs against the regime, looting and beating-up other loyalist of the regime leading to violent clashes between protesters and the forces of law and order which are reinforcing their presence with dangerous combat materials. Needless to say here that the confrontations have led
to loss of lives in various parts of the country

The following is a message issued by the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé.

‘Embassy sources report that looting and unrest has begun in downtown Yaounde around the central market, and in the Mokolo, Madagascar and Carrefour Wada neighborhoods. The Embassy advises against any travel in Yaounde until the situation is brought under control.
Due to continued violence in Douala and increasing outbreaks of violence in the Littoral, South West, West and North West provinces of Cameroon, American citizens in those provinces are advised to remain in their residences for the next twenty-four hours. Americans in other parts of Cameroon are encouraged to limit their travel and be alert to potential hazards. Travel between urban areas should be avoided, as roadblocks have been erected without notice by both
demonstrators and petty criminals on many of the major thoroughfares of Cameroon. Food, fuel and water are increasingly scarce, not only in Douala but in other cities where expectation of shortage has sparked a run on gasoline. In response to the crisis the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy has established a dedicated phone line - 237-2220-1500 x4033, and e-mail address - YaoundeACS@state.gov. The Embassy urges any Americans in Cameroon, particularly those located in areas of unrest, to contact the Consular Section to provide
information about your situation, or to get current information on developments.
All Americans are also reminded to consider reviewing their readiness for emergency situations.
Specifically, citizens should review whether you have appropriate food and other supplies to remain in your residence for a week or more, should that prove necessary. Additionally, Americans should review their travel documents to ensure they are current and consider packing an emergency bag containing your most important documents and possessions. American citizens throughout Cameroon are reminded to avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations if
possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens
should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all
times.’